Met hands files on five journalists to CPS

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Scotland Yard has handed the Crown Prosecution Service files on five journalists for charging advice in relation to Operation Weeting.

The files all relate to allegations of offences under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act, the CPS said.

A CPS spokeswoman said: "We are not prepared to discuss the identities of those involved or the alleged offences in any greater detail at this stage as a number of related investigations are ongoing.

"We are unable to give any timescale for charging decisions, except to say that these cases are being considered very carefully and thoroughly, and the decisions will be made as soon as is practicable."

Today's five files bring to 12 the number of files relating to Scotland Yard's phone-hacking inquiry that have been sent to prosecutors.

The CPS has launched prosecutions relating to just one of the files so far – including former News International chief executive Rebekah Brooks and her racehorse trainer husband Charlie.

Two other files, one involving Guardian journalist Amelia Hill and one relating to former News of the World chief reporter Neville Thurlbeck, have been dropped.

As well as today's five cases, four others are still being considered for charging advice.

They are:

One journalist in relation to alleged offences under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa);

A police officer in relation to an allegation of misconduct in a public office;

A police officer in relation to alleged misconduct in a public office and other associated matters.

A police officer in relation to allegations of misconduct in public office and corruption.